Calderon rides the bench

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The Raptors' one-time point guard of the future is doing an admirable job guarding the bench these days.

Jose Calderon missed 10 games last month because of left Achilles tendonitis, but has dressed for the last three games.

Unfortunately for the Spanish national team star, head coach Sam Mitchell has opted not to use him, instead going with newcomer Andre Barrett as the second option off the bench.

Calderon said after Wednesday's loss to Indiana that his feet feel fine. The rumour is that the organization wants to see what Barrett can do in the last few games of the season.

PIT BULL PUGILIST

One of Mike James' goals is to become the best-conditioned athlete in the NBA.

And to achieve that, he plans to participate in some rather unorthodox training methods this summer, including tennis (for his legs), and boxing. Real boxing, in a ring with real boxers.

"I always wanted to do it, so why not try?" James said this week.

"I've only heard good things about it as a training (technique). And I want to be one of the best conditioned players.

"This is going to help me become that, then why not do it?"

One of James' brothers was a boxer and the first-year Raptor, who will become a free agent this summer, has always wanted to try it, adding that, yes, he will get into he ring and spar, and that whatever team signs him won't stop him.

"They only say no to skiing, motorcycles," James said. "They don't mind you getting punched in the head. But I'll have my protective gear on, so I'm good.

AROUND THE RIM

Tonight's game in Oklahoma City will be a homecoming of sorts for Joey Graham, who went to Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Ok. Graham said that he needs at least 15 tickets ... Former Raptor Jalen Rose, who is done for the season with the New York Knicks, has said on his website that he'll always maintain a residence in Toronto, as he has enjoyed the city so much.